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For many, a senior management position in a large property development firm represents the pinnacle of success. But for Yue Li, the prestigious role became a prison, draining her physically and mentally. Exhausted by a suffocating routine, Li made an extreme decision: she resigned, leaving behind the comforts of the capital city to pursue a solitary life on Dongzhai Island, an uninhabited island in the East China Sea.
Li’s story, which has resonated widely online, speaks to a growing disillusionment with the pressures of modern corporate life and a yearning for simplicity. The move, documented online, has sparked both admiration and envy as individuals grapple with their own work-life balance and the pursuit of well-being. This shift reflects a broader trend of individuals re-evaluating their priorities and seeking alternative lifestyles, even if it means sacrificing financial security for peace of mind.
The contrast between Li’s former and current life is stark. For nearly two decades, she navigated a relentless work schedule. “I traveled on business for about 300 days a year. When in Beijing, I spent four hours each day commuting to and from the office. My health was at its limit,” Li recalled, according to the South China Morning Post on February 9, 2026.
A New Role: Quality Inspector on a Remote Island
Now, Li’s daily tasks are a world away from board meetings and property reports. She works as a quality inspector at a fish feeding base on Dongzhai Island, responsible for checking fish feeding equipment, recording water temperature and wave conditions, and monitoring fish growth, as reported by Kompas.com. Her monthly income has drastically decreased to 3,000 yuan (approximately $430 USD as of February 15, 2026), according to multiple sources including the South China Morning Post and The Times of India.
Dongzhai Island is sparsely populated, with nearby islets also uninhabited. The nearest inhabited island, Daishan Island, is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) away, according to reports from Liputan6.com and the South China Morning Post.
Challenges of Island Life
Life on an uninhabited island is not without its challenges. During her first month, Li faced extreme weather conditions. “When it rains heavily, water leaks from the kitchen roof. If the wind reaches Level 9, I can’t even light a fire to cook,” she revealed. Logistical support is minimal, relying on infrequent ship deliveries. She even discovered, on her first day, that mice had stolen her toothpaste, as reported by Kompas.com.
Despite these hardships, Li expresses no regrets. She now has ample free time to read and enjoy sunsets – luxuries unavailable during her time in Beijing. She supplements her income by foraging for food, often sharing online moments of her successful catches of eels and crabs.
“The supply of crabs here is abundant, more than enough for me to eat. I have been seeking freedom and inner peace in this simple yet harsh environment,” Li said in a video clip, as reported by multiple sources.
Her decision has resonated with many online, sparking a wave of admiration and envy among Chinese internet users.
What comes next for Yue Li remains to be seen, but her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing well-being and seeking a life aligned with one’s values. As more individuals question the traditional markers of success, Li’s unconventional path may inspire others to redefine their own definitions of a fulfilling life.
Share your thoughts on Li’s story and what it means to find balance in a demanding world in the comments below.
